Projectile penetration resistance assemblies

ABSTRACT

Unidirectional transparent projectile penetration resistant panels and bidirectional opaque projectile penetration resistant assemblies and systems and methods of forming and mounting the same relative to underlying support structures.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/426,694 filed on Nov. 28, 2016 titled “Uni-DirectionalProjectile Resistant Assembly” and claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application Ser. No. 62/455,118 filed on Feb. 6, 2017 titled“Projectile Penetration Resistance Assemblies”, the disclosures of eachof which are hereby expressly incorporated herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Penetration resistance is a property that is desired in variousenvironments and in various applications. Examples of such applicationsinclude providing structures that can withstand storm debris impacts,personal and vehicle armaments, etc. Understandably, the degree andnature of the penetration resistance performance is largely related tothe use and construction of the underlying structure or vehicle as wellas the ability of the structure, vehicle, or person to withstand theweight and forces associated with other considers related to movabilityand/or the underlying operation of the structures and/or vehicles withwhich they are supported and providing the desired degree of penetrationresistance.

With respect to storm proofing applications, others provide window anddoor assemblies that are constructed to provide variable degrees ofdebris or projectile impact resistance. Unfortunately, such approachesare not without their respective drawbacks. For instance, storm proofingexisting structures and/or the glass panel assemblies associated withwindows and doors common thereto generally requires replacement of theentire window and door units as a whole. Such an approach requiresconsideration of building codes and building esthetics so as to maintainan unobtrusive presentation of the penetration resistant structures.Such an approach substantially increases new building construction andis generally cost prohibitive from a remodeling perspective.

Further, with respect to configuring existing structures to providepenetration resistance, the existing underlying structures associatedwith supporting the respective doors and windows are generallyill-suited to withstand the additional loading associated withreplacement of such structures. That is, storm proof windows and doorsare generally substantially heavier than traditional window and doorframe assemblies. Such considerations are more problematic inmulti-floored structures and/or structures having floor-to-ceilingwindow and/or door panels wherein the underlying structural framing isill-suited to withstand the addition forces associated with penetrationresistant window and door panels and the weight and forces customarythereto. Accordingly, a first aspect of the present invention isdirected to providing projectile penetration resistance to existingwindow and/or door structures and particularly, the transparent portionsthereof.

It is appreciated that providing penetration resistance to transparentstructures as discussed above has applications beyond buildingstructures. For instance, it should be appreciated that penetrationresistance would be advantageous to many vehicle applications. Forinstance, it is commonly appreciated that security vehicles such as banktransport vehicles and/or armored vehicles and/or vehicles uniquelyconfigured for police, security, and military applications must beuniquely configured to support penetration or bulletproofing. Personalvehicles are also occasionally equipped with such armaments but usuallyonly at such great expense that only the extremely wealthy or otherwisepotentially political and/or famous public figures can afford suchprotections.

Some considerations associated with any vehicle armament are generallyrelated to the construction of the underlying vehicle such that vehiclearmament must be communicated to vehicle manufacturers such that theresultant vehicle can be designed and constructed to withstand theadditional loading associated with such armaments. Such considerationsgenerally include vehicle door frame hinge assemblies, vehicle chassisconsiderations, suspension features, and engine and vehicle transmissionrequirements as known armaments substantially effect the underlyingperformance of such components due to their weight and customaryconsiderations associated with their intended support relative to theunderlying vehicle.

That is, providing original equipment manufacturer's (OEM's) vehicles inan armored configuration customarily requires consideration during thedesign and build of the underlying vehicle to be able to withstandand/or otherwise support the armaments associated therewith. Suchconsiderations are not limited to the glass portions of the underlyingvehicle but also relate to other vehicle panel assemblies which are nototherwise commonly configured to be projectile resistant. Although steelplating is a common approach for the non-transparent structures of theunderlying vehicle portions, such an approach substantially increasesthe weight of the underlying vehicle and the considerations attentivethereto as discussed above. Accordingly, another aspect of the presentinvention is directed to providing opaque and/or transparent penetrationresistance assemblies which do not unduly interfere with considerationsassociated with the formation of the underlying vehicle.

In addition to the weight considerations discussed above, anotherconsideration is directed to the capability or desire of userspositioned in respective armored or protective vehicles to be able toreturn fire or otherwise neutralize threats external to the vehicle.Commonly, vehicle armaments provide bidirectional penetration resistancewherein projectiles cannot pass through the projectile resistancetreatments in either direction. Such considerations render customarypenetration resistance configurations unsuitable for many applicationswherein persons disposed within a vehicle may be better served by beingable to return fire or otherwise defend themselves with respect to actsof aggression directed toward the persons contained in the underlyingvehicle.

Still further consideration with respect to penetration resistance orbulletproofing assemblies relates to personal armaments such as chest,back, or body plating and/or apparel. Such assemblies are customarilyconfigured to accommodate desired degrees of movement of the underlyingwearer and commonly sacrifice penetration resistance in favor of theweight borne by the user as well as maintaining the desired degree offreedom of physical motion for the wearer. Such assemblies cannot beunduly cumbersome and such assemblies must provide dissipation of theprojectile energy to a larger surface area of the wearer's body so as toprevent impact injuries rather than penetration injuries attentivethereto.

Although some such forms of personal physical armaments are provided inflexible garments associated with containing respective discretepenetration resistant panels, such assemblies commonly provideunprotected areas between the discrete panels which facilitate theflexible movement of the respective supporting garment associatedtherewith. As such, such assemblies present the opportunity forprojectile penetrations for those areas that do not include or otherwisepresent the seam edges between discrete penetration resistant panels.Such panels are commonly provided in a conveniently replaceableconfiguration but are generally flat and cannot otherwise be contouredto the underlying anatomy associated with the wearer. Additionally, suchpersonal physical armaments and/or apparel are generally heavy therebylimiting the duration with which a person can function while wearingsuch armaments and requires a degree of fitness uncommon to much of thepopulous including youth.

Therefore, there are needs for projectile penetration resistanceassemblies that can be either transparent and/or opaque depending uponthe intended application, are substantially lighter weight than knownpenetration resistance assemblies, can be supported and/or integratedinto existing and/or original equipment manufacturers equipment, and donot unduly interfere with the desired range of motion or customaryoperation associated with the discrete features and/or pre-existingconstruction of the underlying structure or facility, vehicle, and/oranatomy of a wearer, and, depending upon the intended application, canprovide bidirectional or unidirectional penetration resistanceperformance.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to materials, implementations, and methodsof manufacturing penetration resistant materials the support or mountingstructures associated with securing the resultant material relative to asupport structure and which is resistant to penetration via high energyprojectiles such as bullets or the like.

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a projectileresistant assembly designed to resist movement of a projectile in onedirection while allowing movement of the projectile in another directionincludes at least one window and a gasket. Each window includes a glasslayer having a first side and a second side, a blowback sheet is appliedto the first side of the glass layer, a binder coat is applied to thesecond side of the glass layer, a resistant layer applied to the bindercoat, and a top coat is applied to the resistant layer. In a preferredembodiment, the gasket has a plurality of walls that extend upwardlyfrom a bottom wall and at least one slot disposed between adjacent wallsof the plurality of walls. At least one treated window is disposedwithin each respective slot defined by the gasket.

In accordance with another embodiment of the invention, a kit isdisclosed for treating installed or placed sheets or panes of glass toimprove the impact and penetration resistance of the glass. Depending onthe application associated with use of the glass materials—i.e. aresidential or commercial building window or partition, or a window of acar, the kit can include one or more brackets that are configured tomount projectile resistance treated glass panes or panels relative to anunderlying structure, such as a car frame structure or adjacent buildingstructures. Preferably, a gasket can be provided between each treatedlayer of glass and the respective mounting structure such as arespective bracket.

Each treated window includes a layer of glass having a first side and asecond side. A blowback sheet or layer is applied to the first side ofthe glass layer and a binder coat layer is applied to the second side ofthe layer of glass. A resistant or resistance layer is applied to thebinder coat and a top coat layer is applied to the resistant layer. Whenprovided or when the glass pane or window is not otherwise supported bya vehicle or building structure, the gasket includes a plurality ofwalls that extend upwardly from a bottom wall such that one or moreslots can be defined between adjacent walls of the gasket. Each slot ispreferably configured to sealingly cooperate with a perimeter of arespective window pane or treated glass panel.

When provided, or necessary to support treated glass panels relative toan underlying structure, each bracket preferably includes a main bodyhaving a first end and a second end. A first arm and a second arm eachextend in generally outward lateral directions relative to a firstsurface of the main body from a respective one of the first end and thesecond end of the main body. A receiving slot is disposed between thefirst arm and the second arm and configured to receive a treated glasspane or panel and an associated gasket. A third arm extends in agenerally outward direction from a second surface of the main bodyproximate the second end of the main body and is configured toaccommodate mechanical securing of the bracket, and any treated glasspanels associated therewith, relative to a support structure such as anautomobile or building frame structure.

Another aspect of the present invention is directed to providing apenetration resistant panel that is not transparent. The penetrationresistant panel according to another aspect of the invention is opaqueand formed as a lightweight laminate panel that is readily workable withcustomary wood and metal working tools such as circular or reciprocatingsaws, drilling tools, etc. The panel material is formed of a multiplelayer of nylon reinforced fabric material wherein each layer of fabricmaterial is adhered to one another with an adhesive. The multiplelayered assembly of fabric material and adhesive is pressed into adesired shape and heated during pressing such that the discrete layersof the panel are rendered inseparable during normal working processesand during projectile impact events. The number of layers associatedwith formation of the panel material can be manipulated to provide adesired projectile penetration resistance.

Further, the workablility and lightweight nature of the panel materialhas shown the panel material being suitable for projectile resistance ina number of applications including automotive, furniture, apparel, andbuilding applications. It is further appreciated that the flexibilityassociated with the manufacturing process, when considered incombination with the lightweight nature of the discrete panelsfacilitates formation of the panels in various contours including aspanels suitable for wearing or integration with clothing articles oraccessories, such as purses, backpacks, or the like to providepenetration resistant apparel that does not unduly interfere with orrestrict motion of the wearer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A clear conception of the advantages and features constituting thepresent invention will become more readily apparent by referring to theexemplary, and therefore non-limiting, embodiments illustrated in thedrawings accompanying and forming a part of this specification, whereinlike reference numerals designate the same elements in the severalviews.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of a treated glass window or panelaccording to an embodiment of the invention and in the exemplary formfactor of a vehicle door window;

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the treated glasswindow shown in FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an optional gasket that is constructedto cooperate with a perimeter of a glass panel treated in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 4 is an elevational view of a multiple layered projectile resistantassembly according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5A is a cross-sectional view of the projectile resistant assemblyof FIG. 4 take along line 5-5;

FIG. 5B is an enlarged view of the section 5B-5B of the projectileresistant assembly of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a mounting arrangement associated withsecuring multiple layers of treated glass panels to form a more robustprojectile resistant assembly to an underlying vehicle;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a mounting bracket associated with themounting arrangement shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a view similar to FIG. 7 of a mounting bracket according to analternate embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a view similar to FIGS. 7 and 8 of a mounting bracketaccording to another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a view similar to FIGS. 7-9 of a mounting bracket accordingto yet another embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 11-22 show various views of mounting arrangements associated withsecuring transparent projectile penetration resistant materials relativeto automotive structures such as a door of an automobile or othervehicle;

FIGS. 23-35 show various views of mounting arrangements associated withsecuring transparent projectile penetration resistant materials relativeto automotive structures such as a door of an automobile or othervehicle according to further aspects of the invention; and

FIGS. 36-45 show various views of an opaque bidirectional penetrationresistant panel that can be associated with a support structure such asa door panel of an automobile according to a further aspect of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention and the various features and advantageous detailsthereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limitingembodiments described in detail in the following description.

FIGS. 1 and 2 show a treated glass pane or window 10 that has undergonea glass treatment process as disclosed herein is shown such that window10 is rendered penetration resistant in one direction withoutsubstantially affecting the penetration resistance in an oppositedirection. That is, treated glass window 10 is configured to resistpassage of projectiles through the window in directions crossing theplane defined by the window pane in one direction and only minimallyinterfere with passage of projectiles in an opposite direction. Said inanother way, once treated in the manner disclosed below, commerciallyavailable glass, whether provided in truly planar shapes (customary tobuilding structures) or having a curved or otherwise non-planar or othercontoured shaped (customary to automotive glass), whether tempered ornon-tempered, annealed or non-heated treated, treated window 10 isprovided with a substantial projectile or penetration resistance in onedirection and negligible penetration resistance in the oppositedirection as compared to untreated glass panes having similar mechanicalproperties. That is, treated glass pane 10 has appreciableunidirectional penetration or projectile resistance. It is furtherappreciated that the penetration resistance treatment disclosed furtherbelow can be effectuated prior to assembly of an underlying vehicle orprovided to an already owned vehicle or building transparent structure.

Treated window pane 10 may be provided in virtually any shape. In oneembodiment, treated window pane 10 is provided in the shape of a typicalautomotive window. While, the glass window 10 is depicted as a frontside automobile window, it is also contemplated that the glass window 10may be in virtually any form or shape of window. For example, the glasswindow 10 may be sized and shaped to cooperate with virtually anysupporting structure, such as an automobile, home, commercial building,or other structure commonly having one or more windows.

FIG. 2 illustrates a cross-sectional view showing the multiple layersassociated with treated glass window 10 to manipulate the penetrationresistance of the underlying glass pane. First, treated glass window 10includes a glass layer 12. According to the representative embodiment ofthe invention, the glass layer 12 may be an approximately ½ inch thickpiece of annealed glass. However, it is contemplated that othercombinations of thickness and styles of glass may be used includingtempered and non-tempered glass panels or panes as are customarilycommercially available in various building and automotive applications.It is further appreciated that glass layer 12 may be a treated orlayered glass structure that is configured to resist chipping and/orcracking and otherwise configured to withstand stone impacts or thelike. Some such exemplary glass assemblies include Corning® Gorilla®glass windshields which are formed as a three-layer laminate assemblyformed by a layer of soda lime glass, an interstitial layer of athermoplastic such as a polyvinyl film, and an opposing layer of an ionexchange formed glass material such as Corning® Gorilla® glass. Stillanother option associated with underlying panel include Corning® Willow®glass which exhibits various glass attributes but is provided in aflexible form-factor. Although such materials perform admirably forwithstanding damage due to ordinary exposure to road or environmenthazards such as hail or stones, even such modified glass panels areunable to withstand high energy robust projectile impacts such asfirearm projectiles.

It is appreciated that glass layer 12 can be provided in various sizes,shapes, thicknesses, and of various materials having generally uniformmaterial constructions or laminate material constructions. A blowbacksheet 14 is applied to a first side 16 of the un-treated commerciallyavailable glass layer 14. While the representative embodiment of theinvention uses a blowback sheet 14 comprising a triple-ply polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) film, it is contemplated that the blowback sheet 14may comprise a PET film having more or less than a triple-plyconstruction or another film other than PET.

FIG. 2 further illustrates the glass window 10 including a binder coat18 applied to a second side 20 of the untreated glass layer 12. In oneexample of the invention, the binder coat 18 is a pressure sensitiveadhesive layer. However, it is contemplated that the binder coat 18 maycomprise other adhesives known in the art. The glass window 10 alsoincludes a resistance or resistant layer 22 that is applied to oroverlies the binder coat 18. A thickness 24 of the resistant layer 22may vary depending on the type of projectile the glass window 10 isintended to resist. The glass window 10 further includes a scratchresistant top coat 26 applied to the resistant layer 22. The top coat 26may comprise any material known in the art, for example, but not limitedto, PET. As a result of the configuration of the untreated glass layer12, blowback sheet 14, binder coat 18, resistant layer 22, and top coat26, the glass window 10 is configured to resist passage of one or moreprojectiles through the treated glass window 10 in one direction, whileallowing passage of the projectile through the glass window 10 in theother direction without noticeably detracting from the transparency orvisibility of treated window pane 10 or substantially increasing theload bearing requirement associated with supporting treated window pane10 relative to an underlying structure. When provided for automotiveapplications, it is further appreciated that the frit or black enamelband that commonly circumscribes at least the windshield can be disposedunder the respective layers of the penetration resistance treatment orbe configured to wrap the outward radially directed edge associated withthe circumferential boundary of the treatment. Such a considerationmitigates the potential for delamination or separation of the respectivelayers of the treatment from the underlying glass panel from the radialperimeter edges thereof.

Fitting building structures with treated glass panes 10 can dramaticallyimprove the penetration resistance of the glass panes in a directionfrom atmosphere toward the interior of the structure. Such aconsideration renders buildings and autos better equipped to withstandthe detrimental effects of adverse weather such as hurricanes,tornadoes, or the like, and the airborne debris associated therewith.Similarly, such considerations mitigate the detrimental effects ofantagonistic or terroristic activities by preventing projectiles orshrapnel from arms fire or improvised explosive devices from penetratingthe treated glass panes 10. In a preferred embodiment, testing has shownthat treated glass panes 10 can withstand and prevent penetration ofmultiple rounds of projectiles originating from firearms includingpistols as well as rifles.

The unidirectional projectile penetration resistance performance oftreated glass panes 10 further allows persons associated with thepenetration allowing direction side of the respective treated glasspanes 10 to degrade discrete panes to such an extent that removal of thediscrete panes can be accomplished if egress from a building structurethrough a pane is desired or required. Further, treated glass panes 10can accommodate multiple penetrations in the non-penetration resistancedirection to allow return of firearm fire to desired targets if desiredor necessary. Treated glass panes 10 can accommodate multiplepenetrations associated with return-fire events without appreciablydetracting from the opposite direction projectile penetration preventionaside from those areas immediately axially aligned with an oppositedirection originating previous penetration of a treated glass pane 14.Further, the interference by treated glass pane 10 in the penetrationallowing direction is negligible such that projectiles originating fromthe penetration allowing direction side of treated glass pane 10 onlynegligibly deviate from an intended travel path. Such considerationsallows persons associated with the penetration accommodating side oftreated glass panes 10 to suppress acts of aggression by persons facingthe penetration resistance direction associated with the treated glasspanes 10 in a safer and more efficient manner than similar activitiesfrom behind untreated glass panels 14.

Although it is appreciated that treated glass panes 10 as disclosedabove can be manufactured and provided in various sizes and shapes asdetermined by original equipment manufacturers (OEM'S) specificationsand such that OEM glass panels can be expeditious replaced with asimilarly sized and shaped treated glass pane 10 such that the treatedglass pane 10 cooperates with the respective underlying support oradjacent vehicle frame structures—such as a window opening defined by avehicle door or body frame assembly, it is appreciated that othermethodologies can be provided for supporting or otherwise securingtreated glass panes 10 to an underlying support structure. As shown inFIG. 3, in one or more alternate embodiments of the present invention,the glass treatment system includes a gasket 28 that is preferablyshaped to cooperate with a perimeter of one or more treated glass panels10. In the representative embodiment of the invention, the gasket 28 iscomprised of an extruded rubber. However, it is also contemplated thatthe gasket 28 may be molded in other known processes and from othermaterials similar to rubber.

Gasket 28 includes a first wall 30, a second wall 32, and a third wall34. Each of the first wall 30, second wall 32, and third wall 34 extendupwardly from a bottom wall 36 of the gasket 28. It is contemplated thatthe first wall 30 may extend upwardly at any angle, the second wall 32may extend upwardly at any angle the same or independent from the firstwall 30, and the third wall 34 may extend upwardly at any angle the sameor independent from the respective angles associated the first wall 30and/or the second wall 32.

The first wall 30 extends upwardly from a first end 38 of the bottomwall 36 of the gasket 28, and the second wall 32 extends upwardly from asecond end 40 of the bottom wall 36 of the gasket 28. Meanwhile, thethird wall 34 extends upwardly from a middle location 42 of the bottomwall 36 of the gasket 28. While the representative embodiment of theinvention depicts the middle location 42 as being located approximatelyequidistant from the first end 38 and the second end 40, it iscontemplated that the middle location 42 may be located at any positionalong the bottom wall 36 between the first end 38 and the second end 40.Regardless of their relative positions, first, second, and third walls30, 32, 34 of gasket 28 are oriented to define a first slot 44 that isformed between the first wall 30 and the third wall 34 and a second slot46 that is formed between the third wall 34 and the second wall 32.

In the representative embodiment of the invention, the first wall 30preferably extends in a generally upward direction relative to thebottom wall 36 at an angle of approximately 90° degrees. The third wall34 extends upwardly from the bottom wall 36 at an angle less than 90°degrees relative to a direction facing the first wall 30, while thesecond wall 32 extends upwardly from the bottom wall 36 and toward thethird wall 34 at an angle less than that of the third wall 34. Thisconfiguration allows the gasket 28 to more securely retain a respectivetreated glass window 10 associated with a respective slot 44, 46. Theorientation of first, second, and third walls 30, 32, 34 relative to oneanother further provides a dampening performance in response toprojectile impacts directed in the projectile penetration resistancedirection while negligibly affecting the passage or trajectory ofprojectiles traveling in the projectile penetration accommodatingdirection.

FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B illustrate a transparent projectile resistantassembly 48 that includes at least one treated glass window 10 asdescribed above with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2 and at least one gasket 28as disclosed above with respect to FIG. 3. It is contemplated that thegasket 28 may traverse the entirety of or less than the entirety of theperimeter of the glass window 10. As shown in the cross-sectional viewof FIG. 5A, a first treated glass window 10 a is placed within the firstslot 44 of the gasket 28, and a second treated glass window 10 b isplaced within the second slot 46 of the gasket 28. As a result, a gap 50is formed between the first and second glass windows 10 a, 10 b. The gap50 can be filled with an insulating gas 52, such as, but not limited to,argon. In a preferred embodiment, gasket 28 bounds the perimeter betweenadjacent treated glass panes 10 a, 10 b and sealing cooperates therewithsuch that gap 50 can be pressurized about atmospheric pressure. Thepressurization of gap 50, and the gas associated therewith, has beenshown to improve the penetration resistance performance of system orassembly 48 by improving dispersion of the energy associated withmitigating passage of projectiles through treated glass pane assembly48.

While the representative embodiment of the invention shows the gasket 28having two slots 44, 46, and therefore two glass windows 10 a, 10 b witha single gap 50 disposed therebetween, it is also contemplated that thegasket may include any number (n) of slots 44, 46, such that theprojectile resistant assembly 48 may include any number (n) of glasswindows 10, and the projectile resistant assembly 48 may include anynumber (n−1) of gaps 50 disposed between the glass windows 10. Suchconsiderations allow assembly 48 to be provided in differentconfigurations depending on the degree of projectile resistance thatassembly 48 is intended to withstand and for a desired duration ordegree of degradation in both the non-penetrative and penetrabledirections before failure of the penetration resistance of the resultantassembly.

As further shown in FIG. 5B, the first and second glass windows 10 a, 10b of the projectile resistant assembly 48 are oriented in the samedirection. For example, the first side 16 a of the glass layer 12 a ofthe first glass window 10 a is oriented toward the first side 54 of theprojectile resistant assembly 48, while the first side 16 b of the glasslayer 12 b of the second glass window 10 b is oriented toward the gap50. The second side 20 a of the glass layer 12 a of the first glasswindow 10 a is oriented toward the gap, while the second side 20 b ofthe glass layer 12 b of the second glass window 10 b is oriented towardthe second side 56 of the projectile resistant assembly 48.

As stated earlier, the configuration of the elements associated witheach treated glass window 10 resist and preferably prevent passage ofmultiple projectiles through each treated glass window 10 in onedirection, while allowing passage of projectiles through the treatedglass window 10 in the other direction with negligible impact on thetrajectory of the projectiles traveling in the penetrable direction. Assuch, by orienting the first and second treated glass windows 10 a, 10 bin the same direction, it ensures that penetration associated withmovement of a projectile is prevented, resisted, or mitigated in onedirection yet tolerated in the opposite direction.

Another embodiment of the invention relates to retro-fitting existingwindows of a car, home, or other object to include a projectileresistant assembly 48, as shown in FIGS. 4, 5A, and 5B. In particular,FIG. 6 illustrates the use of one or more brackets 58 according to oneembodiment of the invention to secure projectile resistant assembly 48to a frame member or other supporting structure of a vehicle,automobile, or other structure such as a car 60. Each bracket 58 isconfigured to interfit with a section of the projectile resistantassembly 48 and configured to be mechanically coupled to the underlyingstructure of the car 60. While FIG. 6 illustrates the use of three (3)brackets 58 to secure the projectile resistant assembly 48 to the car60, it is contemplated that any number of brackets 58 may be used tosecure the projectile resistant assembly 48 relative to the underlyingvehicle 60. As described in further detail below, FIGS. 7-10, 11-22, and23-35 illustrate multiple embodiments of brackets 58 that are configuredto couple respective treated window panels 10 to an underlying object,such as, but not limited to, a car 60 and more particularly, a vehicleside door. As disclosed above, it is further appreciated that each ofthe original or OEM window panels could be treated in the mannerdisclosed above and that additional panel assembly 48 enhances theunidirectional penetration resistance associated with the finalconfiguration of the resultant vehicle.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the bracket 58 shown in FIG. 6 assecuring the projectile resistant assembly 48 relative to the vehicle60. In this representative embodiment of the invention, the bracket 58includes a main body 62, a first arm 64 extending outwardly from a firstside 72 of the main body 62 at a first end 66 of the main body 62perpendicular thereto, and a second arm 68 extending outwardly from thefirst side 72 of the main body 62 at a second end 70 of the main body 62perpendicular thereto and in the same direction as the first arm 64. Asa result, first and second arms 64, 68 are oriented generally parallelto one another. The resulting U-shape formed by the main body 62, firstarm 64, and second arm 68 creates a receiving slot 84 that is configuredto receive the projectile resistant assembly 48. While FIG. 7illustrates the first arm 64 extending perpendicularly from the mainbody 62, it is also contemplated that the first arm 64 may extendoutwardly from the main body 62 at any angle other than 90°. Similarly,alternative embodiments of the invention may include the second arm 68extending outwardly from the main body 62 at any angle other than 90°.

The bracket 58 further includes a third arm 74 extending outwardly froma second side 76 of the main body 62 at the second end 70 of the mainbody 62. In this representative embodiment of the invention, the thirdarm 74 extends outwardly from the second side 76 of the main body 62 atan angle less than 90°. As such, the third arm 74 extends away from themain body 62 while simultaneously extending toward a vertical planealigned with the first end 66 of the main body 62 and the first arm 64extending therefrom. While FIG. 7 depicts the third arm 74 extending tothe vertical plane aligned with the first arm 64, it is contemplatedthat the third arm 74 may extend to any point either before or beyondthe vertical plane aligned with the first arm 64.

As shown in FIG. 7, a first end 78 of the third arm 74 is in contactwith the second end 70 of the main body 62, while a fourth arm 80extends from a second end 82 of the third arm 74. The fourth arm 80extends upwardly from the second end 82 of the third arm 74. In thisrepresentative embodiment of the invention, the fourth arm 80 extendsupwardly from the second end 82 of the third arm 74 at an angle greaterthan 90° so as to be oriented perpendicular to the main body 62. As aresult, the fourth arm 80 is also either aligned with or orientedparallel to the vertical plane aligned with the first arm 64. The fourtharm 80 of the bracket is configured to be mechanically secured to thecar 60. The canted or crossing orientation of the respective armsfurther accommodates impact absorption associated with projectilesdirected toward the projectile penetration resistant side of treatedglass panels 10.

Next, FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of a bracket 86 according toanother embodiment of the invention. The bracket 86 includes a main body88, a first arm 90 extending outwardly from a first side 92 of the mainbody 88 at a first end 94 of the main body 88 perpendicular thereto, anda second arm 96 extending outwardly from the first side 92 of the mainbody 88 at a middle location 98 of the main body 88 perpendicularthereto and in the same direction as the first arm 90. As shown in FIG.8, the middle location 98 of the main body 88 is located between thefirst end 94 of the main body 88 and a second end 100 of the main body88. In other words, the main body 88 extends beyond the second arm 96.Further, it is contemplated that the middle location 98 may be locatedat any point between the first and second ends 94, 100 of the main bodyand is not limited to the midpoint therebetween. Similar to the bracket58 shown in FIG. 7, the resulting U-shape formed by the main body 88,first arm 90, and second arm 96 creates a receiving slot 102 that isconfigured to receive the projectile resistant assembly 48.Additionally, while the first arm 90 is shown as extendingperpendicularly from the main body 88, it is also contemplated that thefirst arm 90 may extend outwardly from the main body 88 at any angleother than 90°. In turn, alternative embodiments of the invention mayinclude the second arm 96 extending outwardly from the main body 88 atany angle other than 90°.

The bracket 86 also includes a third arm 104 that extends outwardly froma second side 106 of the main body 88 at the second end 100 of the mainbody 88 perpendicular thereto. However, it is also contemplated that thethird arm 104 may extend outwardly from the second side 106 of the mainbody 88 at an angle other than 90°. The third arm 104 of the bracket 86is configured to be mechanically secured to the car 60.

Now referring to FIG. 9, a bracket 108 is shown according to anotherembodiment of the invention. The bracket 108 includes a main body 110, afirst arm 112 extending outwardly from a first side 114 of the main body110 at a first end 116 of the main body 110 perpendicular thereto, and asecond arm 118 extending outwardly from the first side 114 of the mainbody 110 at a second end 120 of the main body 110 perpendicular theretoand in the same direction as the first arm 112. Similar to thepreviously described brackets, the resulting U-shape formed by the mainbody 110, first arm 112, and second arm 118 creates a receiving slot 122that is configured to receive the projectile resistant assembly 48.While the first arm 112 is shown as extending perpendicularly from themain body 110, it is also contemplated that the first arm 112 may extendoutwardly from the main body 110 at any angle other than 90°. Similarly,it is contemplated that the second arm 118 extending outwardly from themain body 110 at any angle other than 90°.

The bracket 108 also includes a third arm 124 extending outwardly from asecond side 126 of the main body 110 at the second end 120 of the mainbody 110 perpendicular thereto. In this representative embodiment of theinvention, the third arm 124 is aligned vertically with the second arm118. The third arm 124 of the bracket 108 is configured to bemechanically secured to the car 60. While FIG. 9 shows the third arm 124as extending outwardly from the second side 126 of the main bodyperpendicular thereto, the third arm 124 may be oriented at any angleother than 90° in other embodiments of the invention.

Next, FIG. 10 illustrates a bracket 128 according to yet anotherembodiment of the invention. Similar to previously described brackets,the bracket 128 includes a main body 130, a first arm 132 extendingoutwardly from a first side 134 of the main body 130 at a first end 136of the main body 130 perpendicular thereto, and a second arm 138extending outwardly from the first side 134 of the main body 130 at asecond end 140 of the main body 130 perpendicularly thereto. Theresulting u-shape formed by the main body 130, first arm 132, and secondarm 138 creates a receiving slot 142 that is configured to receive theprojectile resistant assembly 48. It is noted that in other embodimentsof the invention the first arm 132 may extend outwardly from the firstside 134 main body 130 at any angle other than 90°, and the second arm128 may also extend outwardly from the first side 134 of the main body130 at any angle other than 90°.

Additionally, the bracket 128 includes a third arm 144 extendingoutwardly from a second side 146 of the main body 130 at the second end140 of the main body 130. In this representative embodiment of theinvention, the third arm 144 includes an arced portion 148 and a flatportion 150. The arced portion 148 is located at a first end 152 of thethird arm 144, which is in contact with the second end 140 of the mainbody 130, and the flat portion 150 is located at a second end 154 of thethird arm. As shown in FIG. 10, the third arm 144 extends outwardly fromthe second side 146 of the main body 130 at its first end 152. Theorientation of the third arm 144 is then altered by the arc portion 148so that the flat portion 150 of the third arm 144 is oriented parallelto the main body 130 and extends toward a vertical plane aligned withthe first arm 132. As a result, the third arm 144 extends outwardly fromthe second side 146 of the main body 130 and toward the vertical planealigned with the first arm 132. In other embodiments of the invention,the flat portion 150 of the third arm 144 may be oriented at any angleother than parallel to the main portion 130.

While FIG. 10 illustrates the third arm 144 as extending to the verticalplane aligned with the first arm 132, it is also contemplated the thirdarm 144 may extend beyond or stop before the vertical plane aligned withthe first arm 132. The bracket 128 further includes a fourth arm 156,which extends upwardly from the third arm 144 so as to be orientedparallel to or aligned with the vertical plane aligned with the firstarm 132. The fourth arm 156 is configured to be mechanically coupled tothe car 60. It is appreciated that, depending on the configurationand/or construction of the underlying vehicle, one or more of brackets58, 86, 108, 128 may be used to secure a discrete projectile penetrationresistant assembly relative to an underlying vehicle.

Preferably, when associated with a respective vehicle, treated panelassemblies or system 48 does not interfere with operability or theaesthetics of the underlying vehicle. That is, when treated, the OEMtreated glass pane 10 remains operable to be open and closed. Whenequipped with resistance assembly 48, resistance assembly does notinterfere with interaction with door mounted controls or the interiortrim customarily supported by the door frame. It should further beappreciated that the comparatively light-weight construction associatedwith the unidirectional projectile penetration resistance systemdisclosed herein mitigates the concerns associated with reinforcing theframe and suspension features of the underlying vehicle whilemaintaining the projectile penetration resistance performance common toother such system and many systems which do not accommodateunidirectional penetration tolerance.

It should further be appreciated the relative unidirectional projectileresistance associate with treated window pane 10 and resistance assembly48 can be manipulated by providing 1-n numbers of treated surfacesassociated with the unidirectional penetration direction. That is, theOEM window pane may be treated or left untreated provided supplementalunidirectional penetration layers are disposed proximate the OEM windowpane. It is further appreciated that the penetration resistanceperformance of one or more of the treated panels can be manipulated byreplacing the glass panel associated with supporting the treatmentlayers with other materials such as projectile penetration resistantmaterials such as Lexan or other projectile penetration resistantmaterials such as Plexiglas. It is further appreciated that, in someapplications, it may be desirable to leave the OEM vehicle window paneuntreated but associated with the selectively removable treatment system48 that includes one or more discrete treated panels that include aglass or other material treatment supporting substrate material. Such aconsideration allows the underlying vehicle to be returned to a nearidentical OEM configuration should it be subsequently desired toeliminate the projectile penetration resistance associated with thesame.

FIGS. 11-22 show various views of alternate exemplary embodiments ofmounting assemblies 200, 202, 204, 206, 208 associated with securing aunidirectional penetration resistant panel relative to a supportstructure—such as a vehicle door frame 210. Each mounting assembly 200,202, 204, 206, 208 includes a center portion 212 having one or moreopenings 214 formed therein. Preferably, as disclosed further below,openings 214 are threaded to cooperate with a respective fastenerassociated with securing the respective mounting assembly 200, 202, 204,206, 208 relative to the support clip 220 is described further belowwith respect to FIG. 14.

Each assembly 200, 202, 204, 206, 208 includes a first portion 216 and asecond portion 218 that extend an opposite lateral directions relativeto the respective center portion 212. Although each respective firstportion 216 is associated with a respective lateral end of centerportion 212, second portion 218 is oriented to extend from centerportion 212 at a respective location relative to center portion 212 in adirection that is axially aligned with an axis associated with openings214. That is, wherein second portion 218 associated with mount assembly200 is oriented to be generally aligned with first portion 216 thereof,second portion 218 associated with mount assembly 208 is oriented at theopposite lateral end associated with center portion 212 such that firstportion 216 and second portion 218 associated with mount assembly 208are oriented at generally opposite lateral ends of center portion 212and extend an opposite lateral directions relative thereto. As disclosedfurther below, respective first portion 216 and respective secondportion 218 are oriented along the lateral axis associated with centerportion 212 of respective mount assemblies 200, 202, 204, 206, 208 tofacilitate the mounting of transparent penetration resistant panelhaving a desired thickness relative to an underlying support member suchas door frame 210.

In another embodiment, respective mount assemblies 200, 202, 204, 206,208 are constructed to cooperate with door frame 210 and a penetrationresistant panel associated therewith so as to provide bypass operabilityassociated with discrete portions of transparent penetration resistantpanels such that the discrete panels remain generally surrounded by aframe structure such as door frame 210.

As shown in FIG. 14, respective support assemblies 200, 202, 204, 206,208 are oriented to be generally intermittently circumferentiallydisposed about a respective transparent unidirectional penetrationresistant panel 230. Respective openings 214 are configured to cooperatewith respective fasteners 232 constructed the pass through a clip 234such that a first portion 236 of a respective clip 234 extends in aninboard radial direction relative to an edge 238 associated with panel230 and an opposing portion 240 extends in a radially outboard directionrelative to an imaginary line that extends between fasteners 232.

As shown in FIG. 15, each respective mount assembly 200, 202, 204, 206,208, a respective clip 234, and respective fasteners 232 associatedtherewith maintains a relatively lightweight mounting assemblyassociated with securing a respective panel 230 relative to a supportstructure such as door frame 210. Referring to FIG. 16, a respectivedistance 240 is provided between an upward facing surface 242 associatedwith respective portions 216, 218 of each respective mount assembly 200,202, 204, 206, 208 and an end face 244 associated with the respectivecenter portion 212. Dimension 240 associated with respective first andsecond portions 216, 218 is configured to accommodate secure capture ofa respective panel 230 therebetween so as to allow secure mounting ofrespective panels 230 relative to door frame 210.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, panel 230 can be constructed to include acutout 250 associated with receiving center portion 212 of a respectivemount assembly 200, 202, 204, 206, 208 such that a respective portion216, 218 associated with the respective mount assembly 200, 202, 204,206, 208 provides an interfering engagement with a portion of door frame210 and an opposing respective portion 216, 218 extends in an inboardradial direction relative to panel 230 so as to overlap therewith.

As shown in FIG. 19, a respective panel 230 is secured to door frame 210via a plurality of associated mount assemblies 200-208 that are orientedat various radial locations relative to perimeter 238 associated withpanel 230 such that respective portions 216, 218 of respective mountassemblies 200-208, corresponding clips 234, and the respective portions236, 240 thereof provide an overlapping orientation relative to bothdoor frame 210 and panel 230 relative to the opposite lateral sides ofthereof.

Referring to FIGS. 20-22, frame member 210 includes one or more cutouts260 or elongated grooves 262 that are shaped to slideably receive arespective portion 216, 218 of the respective mount assemblies, such asmount assembly 208. The slidable association between a respective mountassembly 208 and respective cutout 260 and/or channel 262 provides anoverlapping interface between a respective mount assembly 200, 202, 204,206, 208 relative to door frame 210 so as to prevent inward or outwardlateral deflection or displacement of a respective panel 230 associatedwith door frame 210 during a projectile impact event in a firstdirection or a projectile penetration event in the opposite direction.

It is further appreciated that panel 230 may be shaped to interfere withless than the entire perimeter associated with the opening defined bydoor frame 210. When provided in such a configuration, one or more ofmount assemblies 200, 202, 204, 206, 208 can be secured to one of panel230 or frame member 210 so as to accommodate a slidable bypassarrangement between discrete panels that collectively define theperiphery of the opening defined by door frame 210. Said another way,such a configuration allows the window assembly defined by panel 230 toremain operable so as to provide ventilation to the interior of anautomotive cavity when the respective portions of panel 230 are moved toan orientation wherein the discrete portions of the panel generallyoverlie one another.

FIGS. 23-35 show various views of various mount assemblies 400, 402, 404according to another alternate embodiment of the invention. Unlikediscrete mount assemblies 200, 202, 204, 206, 208, each of mountassemblies 400, 402, 404 includes a one-piece rigid body 406, 408, 410that is constructed to receive and support a treated glass panel andcooperate with the framing of an underlying support structure. Referringto FIGS. 23 and 26-27, body 406 includes a first channel 412 and asecond channel 414 that each extend along a longitudinal length of body406. A bumper 415 is constructed to cooperate with one or more fasteners416, 418, 420 and is configured to be disposed within channel 412.Manipulation of fasteners 416, 418, 420 relative to body 406 via one ormore threaded passages 422 provides lateral translation of bumper 415relative to channel 412 such that operation of fasteners 416, 418, 420allows bumper 415 to be compressed against a treated glass paneldisposed in channel 412.

Channel 414 defines a rib 424 that is constructed to cooperate with asupport frame structure such as cutout 260 or channel 262 of a supportstructure as shown in FIG. 21. Referring to FIGS. 24 and 28-29, likemount body 406, mount body 408 includes a first channel 428 and thesecond channel 430 that extend along the longitudinal length thereof. Abumper 432 cooperates with one or more fasteners 434 and is constructedto be compressed against a treated glass panel disposed in channel 428.Unlike body 406, channel 428 of body 408 extends in a somewhat crossingdirection relative to the longitudinal axis thereof and is oriented at acrossing direction relative to channel 430. Such a consideration allowsthe crossing orientation of the longitudinal axis associated withchannel 428 relative to channel 430 so as to accommodate crossinglongitudinal axes orientations between the treated glass panelassociated with channel 428 and the cooperation of rib 438 of body 408with a corresponding support structure.

Referring to FIGS. 25 and 30-31, unlike mount bodies 406, 408, mountbody 410 includes an elongate channel 440 that is constructed to receivea treated glass panel and is shaped to be snugly engaged therewith. Arib 442 extends from a generally downward extending portion of body 410and is constructed to cooperate with a slot such as cutout 260 ofchannel 262 as shown in FIG. 21 and associated with an underlyingsupport structure, such as a vehicle door. The longitudinal axis ofchannel 440 is generally parallel to the longitudinal axis associatedwith rib 442.

When oriented with respect to a vehicle frame, a respectiveconfiguration and construction of mount bodies 406, 408, 410 allowsplacement of the treated glass panel relative thereto such thatsubsequent tightening of respective fasteners 416, 418, 420, 434provides a secure and robust attachment of the treated glass panelrelative to the underlying vehicle frame body. Further, the selectiveoperability associated with mount bodies 406, 408 allows convenientreplacement of a used, spent, or otherwise utilized or perforated orimpacted unidirectional penetration resistant glass panel as disclosedabove.

Although various exemplary dimensions are provided with respect to FIGS.26-31 with respect to each of mount bodies 400, 402, 404 is appreciatedthat the various configurations and/or dimensions provided therein, andthe longitudinally aligned or crossing orientation of the longitudinalaxis associated with the respective channels and ribs of respectivebodies 406, 408, 410 are generally specific to exemplary vehicles orvehicle types. Although it is appreciated that one or more of mountbodies 400, 402, 404 may be usable across various vehicle and/ormanufacturer platforms and/or across various manufacturing yearsrelative to discrete vehicle configurations, it is further appreciatedthat mount bodies 400, 402, 404 may be provided in alternateconfigurations to maintain the desired operability associated with thetreated glass panel relative to the underlying vehicle and/or changesbetween model years and/or vehicle types between discrete manufacturersand/or between discrete manufacturer model years.

Similarly, referring to FIGS. 23, 24, and 32-35, it is furtherappreciated that the configuration and/or shape of bumpers 415, 432associated with respective mount bodies 400, 402 can be provided invarious configurations. Comparatively, referring to FIGS. 32 and 34, itshould be appreciated that bumper 414 has a substantially rectilinearcross sectional shape whereas bumper 432 has only a generallyrectilinear shape wherein alternate longitudinal edges 460, 462associated with bumper 432 are provided with dissimilar thicknesses.Such a consideration accommodates the relative orientation of thetreated glass panel associated with respective bumper 432 relative tothe underlying mount body 402 and allows the respective mount body,discrete treated glass panel and respective bumper to correspond to theconstruction associated with the discrete location of the respectiveunderlying frame assembly associated with an underlying vehicle asdisclosed above. It is further appreciated that each of bumpers 415, 430can be constructed of a pliable or somewhat elastic but robust materialand/or have a laminate construction that is configured to preventpassage or over compression of discrete fasteners 416, 418, 420, 434relative to the respective mount body and to provide generally uniformcompression of respective bumper 415, 432 relative to the underlyingtreated glass panel when assembled. Mount assemblies 400, 402, 404 areconstructed to be disposed about the circumference of the treated glasspanel in a spaced manner but in a manner to provides a robust and securesupport arrangement for the surface area defined by the treated glasspanel.

Each of the various assemblies disclosed above provide unidirectionalpenetration resistance associated with what is customarily understood asa window assembly associated with an automobile. It is furtherappreciated that the operable door assembly associated with suchvehicles customarily has less penetration resistance performance ascompared to the transparent unidirectional penetration resistant panelssuch as panel 230 described above. Understandably, such structurescommonly are not required or even desired to be transparent.Accordingly, there is a further need for a penetration resistant panelassembly configured to cooperate with the remainder of the underlyingvehicle or those portions of the vehicle which are not customarilytransparent to improve the penetration resistant performance thereof.FIGS. 36-45 disclose a panel and a system for improving the penetrationresistant performance of support assemblies where transparencyassociated with the resultant assembly is not of particular concern.

Referring to FIGS. 36 and 37, another aspect of the present invention isdirected to a bidirectional penetration resistant panel 300 that isslightly deflectable but constructed to resist high impact energyprojectile penetration in either direction at directions normal to aplane defined by the panel and at directions that are pitched relativeto the normal direction. Panel 300 is constructed of a relativelylightweight material and constructed to be workable with customarywoodworking and metalworking tools such as circular saws, reciprocatingsaws, drills, shears, hand tools, and the like. Panel 300 is constructedto withstand projectile penetrations in a manner wherein the remainderof the frame structure associated with supporting the penetrationresistant panel is commonly robust enough to withstand and maintain anoperative condition when so equipped. As disclosed further below, panel300 is constructed to mitigate separation or degradation of the panel300 in response to high energy projectile impacts and regardless of thedirection or angle of incidence associated with the impact.

Panel 300 is defined by body 302 that is generally defined by aperimeter 304 and a thickness that is generally defined by dimension306. Body 302 of panel 300 has a laminate construction and is formed ofa plurality of layers of a nylon fabric material and adhesive disposedbetween adjacent layers of the fabric material. When subjected todesired pressures and temperatures and allowed to cure, body 302 ofpanel 300 is generally penetration resistant in crossing directionsrelative to the plane defined by body 302. Preferably, body 302 includesno fewer than 50 layers of nylon fabric material and a pressuresensitive adhesive subjected to pressures of approximately 10,000 to28,000 pounds per square inch (psi), and preferably 20,000 to 28,000pounds per square inch (psi) and temperatures of no greater thanapproximately 240 degrees Fahrenheit, and more preferably in the rangeof 200 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit during the formation process.Preferably, the fabric and adhesive laminate assembly is subjected topressures of no less than 10,000 psi and temperatures no greater than240 Fahrenheit or less than approximately 140 degrees Fahrenheit duringformation of panel 300.

It should be appreciated that thickness 306 associated with panel 300can be manipulated so as to manipulate the impact energy panel 300 canwithstand without allowing penetration thereof. Preferably, panel 300 isconstructed to withstand projectile penetration energies as described byUnderwriters Laboratory Class 3A impact resistance. It is furtherappreciated that the thickness 306 of panel 300 can be manipulated tosatisfy other more demanding impact penetration resistance performance,such as Underwriters Laboratory Class 4A impact resistance requirementswithout substantially increasing the weight associated with panel 300.

Panel 300 is also sufficiently lightweight so as to be convenientlytransportable by a wearer and is slightly deflectable so as to allowpositioning of panel 300 relative to various support structures 310 suchas automotive door panels, seats, trunk structures, roof, dash, legcavity structures or the like. It is further appreciated that duringformation of panel 300, mold portions can be provided so as to providecontoured panels, such as chest, back, leg, or abdomen panels that canbe incorporated into garments or pockets thereof, backpacks, or othersuitable structures such as helmets, shields or the like.

Referring to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 36 and 37, panel 300 ispreferably constructed to slideably cooperate with channel structures ofautomotive features such as a window gasket 312 associated with doorpanel 310 such that panel 300 can be disposed between an exterior skin314 and an interior panel associated with door panel 310 withoutconsiderable effort or unique molding of discrete vehicle specific panelconfigurations. The hand or power tool workability associated with panel300 allows formation of one or more cutouts 316 such that panel 300 doesnot interfere with the operability of other structures such as a doorlatch or window assemblies one associated with door panel 310. As shownin FIGS. 36 and 37, panel 300 can be translated in a generally downwarddirection, indicated by arrow 318 relative to door panel 310 such thatpanel 300 can be disposed between exterior door skin 314 and an interiorskin 320 associated therewith.

Referring to FIGS. 36-43, when associated with door panel 310, a loweredge 320 of panel 300 is constructed to be disposed between a laterallyextending crossbar 322 associated with door panel 310 and an interiorfacing surface 324 associated with door skin 314. It is furtherappreciated that panel 300 can be provided in a multiple portionconfiguration wherein the opposing portions are configured to cooperatewith and/or accommodate the interior structures of door panel 310.

A support bracket 326 extends in a generally vertical direction,indicated by arrow 328, relative to door panel 310. Support bracket 326extends between a lower lateral rail 330 defined by door panel 310 andan upper lateral frame rail 332 defined by doorframe 310. Referring toFIGS. 38-39, a lower end 340 of support bracket 326 has a generallyrectilinear shape 342 that is configured to cooperate with lower framerail 322 of doorframe 310. The rectilinear shape 342 associated withlower end 340 of support bracket 326 provides a tactile indication as toa generally vertically transverse orientation of support bracket 326relative to door panel 310 when support bracket 326 is associatedtherewith.

Lower end 340 of support bracket 326 is constructed to be snuglycaptured between lower frame rail 322 and panel 300 so as to preventlateral translation of panel 300 relative to doorframe 310 when panel300 is subjected to an impact or during operation of the underlyingvehicle. The vehicle outboard lateral orientation of support bracket 326relative to crash bar 322 prevents inward lateral deflection of panel300 relative to door panel 310 due to impacts proximate the longitudinalcenterline or median portion associated with door panel 310 andlocations offset therefrom.

Referring to FIGS. 37, 40, and 43, an upward oriented longitudinal end348 of support bracket 326 has a generally curvilinear shape 350 and isconstructed to be captured behind an upper rail 332 associated with doorpanel 310. Rail 332 preferably includes a cutout 360 constructed toprovide a tactile indication as to the generally vertical orientation ofsupport bracket 326 relative to doorframe 310. Cutout 360 is preferablycontoured to cooperate with end 348 of support bracket 326 so as toprevent translation of support bracket 326 when engaged therewith.Alternatively, it is appreciated that an adhesive material, such assilicone or the like, can be utilized to maintain the desiredorientation of support bracket 326 relative to upper and lower framemembers 322, 332 associated with door panel 310.

When engaged with door panel 310, panel 300 is generally disposedbetween support bracket 326 and an interior facing surface 324 ofexterior door skin 310 such that support bracket 326 prevents inwardlateral deflection of panel 300 when panel 300 is subjected to impactsdirected in an inboard lateral direction relative to door panel 310. Ascompared to the transparent penetration resistant panel assembliesdisclosed above, it should be appreciated that panel 300 is resistant toprojectile penetrations in opposite lateral directions and directionsoriented in crossing orientations relative to the generally planarorientation of panel 300. That is, it should be further appreciated thatpanel 300 is resistant to projectile penetrations that are directed incrossing directions relative to the planar orientation of panel 300.Panel 300, and support bracket 326 associated therewith, when associatedwith door panel 310 are further configured the facilitate or otherwisemaintain operation of the customary structures of door panel 310 such asa door latch and handle assemblies as well as window operating systems.

As disclosed above, although disclosed above as being associated with adoor panel 310, it is further appreciated that projectile penetrationresistant panel 300 can be conveniently configured to cooperate withother automotive structures such as seatbacks or the like, trunkstructures, other door or roof structures, dash, leg cavity structures,etc. to provide an automotive or vehicle assembly wherein the passengercompartment is generally configured to resist projectile penetrationsdirected into the occupant cavity. As further disclosed above, it isfurther appreciated that the lightweight nature and moldabilityassociated with formation of panel 300 renders panel 300 convenientlyapplicable to other applications such as the formation of body armor,shields, etc. wherein penetration resistant materials are intended to betransported by a wearer or in close proximity to organic entities.

It should be understood that the above description, while indicatingrepresentative embodiments of the present invention, is given by way ofillustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications maybe made within the scope of the present invention without departing fromthe spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications.Various additions, modifications, and rearrangements are contemplated asbeing within the scope of the following claims, which particularly pointout and distinctly claim the subject matter regarding as the invention,and it is intended that the following claims cover all such additions,modifications, and rearrangements.

I claim:
 1. A glass treatment assembly that provides unidirectionalprojectile penetration of an underlying pane of glass, the glasstreatment assembly comprising: a blowback sheet applied to a first sideof a layer of glass; a binder coat applied to a second side of the layerof glass layer that is opposite the first side; a resistant layerapplied to the binder coat; and a top coat applied to the resistantlayer such that the blowback sheet, the binder coat, resistant layer,and top coat do not unduly interfere with transparency of the layer ofglass, prevent penetration of projectiles through the assembly in afirst direction, and allow penetration of projectiles through theassembly in a direction generally opposite the first direction.
 2. Theglass treatment assembly of claim 1 further comprising a gasket thatincludes a plurality of walls that extend upwardly from a bottom wallsuch that the plurality of walls and the bottom wall define at least oneslot disposed between adjacent walls of the plurality of walls andwherein at least one layer of glass fitted with the glass treatmentassembly can be disposed within a respective one of the at least oneslot.
 3. The glass treatment assembly of claim 2 wherein the at leastone layer of glass further defines a window and wherein the gasketcomprises a plurality of slots that are each configured to slideablyreceive a respective window fitted with a respective glass treatmentassembly.
 4. The glass treatment assembly of claim 3 further comprisinga gap disposed between adjacent layers of glass associated with therespective window.
 5. The glass treatment assembly of claim 3 furthercomprising an insulating gas disposed within the gap.
 6. The glasstreatment assembly of claim 2 wherein the gasket surrounds a perimeterof the layer of glass.
 7. An automotive window treatment kit thatprovides unidirectional penetration resistance to treated windows, thetreatment kit comprising: a glass treatment assembly comprising: ablowback sheet configured to be applied to the first side of a window; abinder coat configured to be applied to a second side of the window; aresistant layer applied to the binder coat; and a top coat applied tothe resistant layer; a gasket assembly comprising: a gasket member thatdefines at least one slot configured to extend about at least a portionof a perimeter of the window; and a mount bracket assembly that isconfigured to mount a supplemental window adjacent at least one windowof the car, the bracket assembly comprising: a main body having a firstend and a second end; a first arm extending outwardly from a firstsurface of the main body at the first end of the main body; a second armextending outwardly from the first surface of the main body at thesecond end of the main body; a receiving slot disposed between the firstarm and the second arm, the receiving slot configured to receive thesupplemental window; and a third arm extending outwardly from a secondsurface of the main body at the second end of the main body.
 8. Thetreatment kit of claim 7 wherein the mount bracket assembly is furtherconstructed to maintain a gap between adjacent windows.
 9. The treatmentkit of claim 8 further comprising an insulating gas disposed within thegap.
 10. The treatment kit of claim 7 further comprising a fastenerconfigured to mechanically secure the third arm of each mount bracketassembly relative to a respective automobile.
 11. The treatment kit ofclaim 7 wherein the first arm and second arm of the bracket are orientedgenerally perpendicular to the main body.
 12. The treatment kit of claim7 wherein the third arm of the bracket is oriented generallyperpendicular to the main body.
 13. The treatment kit of claim 7 whereinthe bracket assembly further comprises a fourth arm that extendsupwardly from an end of the third arm and is configured to bemechanically secured to an underlying respective automobile.
 14. Thetreatment kit of claim 13 wherein the fourth arm is oriented generallyparallel to at least one of the first arm and the second arm.
 15. Amethod of providing unidirectional projectile penetration resistance toglass, the method comprising: applying a blowback layer to a first sideof a generally planar glass surface; applying a binder coat layer to asecond side of the generally planar glass surface; applying a resistancelayer to the binder coat layer such that the binder coat layer isdisposed between the resistance layer and the generally planar glasssurface; and applying a top coat layer to the resistance layer such thatthe resistance layer is disposed between the binder coat layer and thetop coat layer and such that the blowback sheet, the binder coat,resistant layer, and top coat do not unduly interfere with transparencyof the layer of glass, prevent penetration of projectiles throughtreated glass surfaces in a first direction, and allow penetration ofprojectiles through the treated glass surfaces in a direction generallyopposite the first direction.
 16. The method of claim 15 furthercomprising applying the blowback layer to the first side of thegenerally planar glass surface such that the first side faces indirection generally opposite the first direction when the generallyplanar glass surface is associated with a support structure.
 17. Themethod of claim 15 further comprising disposing a gasket about aperimeter of a pair of adjacent treated glass surfaces such that a spaceis maintained between the adjacent glass surfaces.
 18. The method ofclaim 17 further comprising orienting the adjacent treated glasssurfaces at crossing angles that are near parallel relative to oneanother.
 19. The method of claim 17 further comprising filing the spacewith a gas.
 20. The method of claim 17 further comprising providing aplurality of mounting brackets that are each configured to cooperatewith the adjacent treated glass surfaces and secure the adjacent treatedglass surfaces relative to an underlying structure of a vehicle.